As National Geographic Orion sailed south out of Ushuaia through the night, our woes about the Drake Passage disappeared; we were greeted with fabulous weather and very little swell. As today was a travel day, we enjoyed daily life aboard National Geographic Orion including: reading, playing board games, bird watching, listening to lectures, and getting to know our new shipmates. And, of course, we can’t forget all the time we spent being wined and dined with delectable cuisine. Excitement has been building throughout the day in anticipation for our first landing tomorrow; we cannot wait!
2/20/2024
Read
National Geographic Resolution
Cape Horn and Beagle Channel
The huge distances we have covered on this journey meant that our last full day was spent almost completely at sea on our return leg from Antarctica. After a merciful lie-in, we crowded the decks as we sailed past Cape Horn, the majestic headland at the bottom tip of Hornos Island, the southernmost point of Tierra del Fuego and the entire South American continent. Despite its fearsome reputation, pleasant seas allowed for an enjoyable brunch before we plunged into our presentation schedule for the morning and afternoon. Naturalist Gail Ashton related her experience of living on the Antarctica continent for 18 months, Jonny Reid discussed marine mammal acoustics and the underwater soundscapes of this region, and Jess Farrer explained how the study of whale and seal poop can tell us so much about these animals. As we entered the Beagle Channel, the stunning mountains of Tierra del Fuego lined our passage to Ushuaia. Gathering in the Ice Lounge for the captain’s farewell party, we toasted a hugely enjoyable trip and the new friends we have made.
